Is The Declaration of Independence the Answer to Our Problems?

On July 4th, 1776 The Declaration of Independence was signed, freeing us of control by the Kingdom of Great Britain. In today’s post, I will be sharing what the most famous line on that document means to me in the present day and age.

“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.”

THEIR Creator. Not my Creator, not your Creator, but their creator. Whether they call their Creator God, Allah, apes or the Universe.

“…certain unalienable Rights…”

Unalienable = inalienable = absolute; cannot be transferred or sold or taken by anyone else.

“…among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.”

Every life is valuable and important.

Every life should enjoy freedom from arbitrary or tyrannical government or control.

The pursuit of Happiness is entirely subjective to each individual, so long as it doesn’t violate the other two rights. (In case you happen to be debating this line with a rapist or child molester)

I think of all the Hot Topics being discussed right now and feel like this is a good reminder for all of us. I believe this statement could solve so many debates and questions right now. Same-Sex Marriage is a perfect example. How we interact with other countries is another. If this is what we believe, then shouldn’t we believe it for everyone in the world? Not just Americans. If we believe this and live by this then aren’t ALL of us in the world created equal? Don’t we ALL have the right to Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness? Shouldn’t we believe this even if we are dealing with someone else who doesn’t? Isn’t that called “Integrity”? Just wondering.

I’d love for you to share what The Declaration of Independence means to you in the “Comments” section. The cool part is you don’t have to agree with me, that’s your right too. Either way, have a Happy Independence Day!!

Thank you for your thoughts. In my opinion I am not convinced “men” was all inclusive to include ALL women!! I would like to think that was their intent but … it makes me wonder based on the many glass ceilings that exsist. This could be another topic….Happy Independence Day!!

Thanks for sharing Chris! Like you, I’m not convinced that was their meaning when using the word “men”, but my present day interpretation is as stated. It is sad that the glass ceilings do still exist, but I believe we will get through them all one day.

I liked the way you broke it down….I do the same thing when answering a letter…it makes it so much easier to understand and get a point across….that was so well out and you once again hit the nail on the head,,,,everyone has a right to valued and equal…

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Hello, I’m April!

April is a Personal Development Coach. She is a certified Strategic Interventionist, trained Financial Coach and skilled Workshop Designer and Facilitator. She helps growth-minded, life-long learners identify opportunities for reaching their highest potential. She works with clients to create fail-proof strategies using her own unique system. She strives to empower others to live a fulfilling, authentic life both personally and professionally.